Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Paper For the Oak Ridges Moraine Technical Paper 2. (Final Draft) February, 2004

Transcription

1 1 Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Paper For the Oak Ridges Moraine Technical Paper 2 (Final Draft) February, 2004

2 2 Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Paper For the Oak Ridges Moraine TABLE OF CONTENTS: Section 1.0 Purpose Page 3 Section 2.0 Background Page 3 Section 3.0 Identification and Protection of Significant Page 4 Wildlife Habitat on the ORM Section 3.1 Significant Wildlife Habitats Applicable to the Page 4 ORM Section 3.2 Definition of Candidate and Confirmed Page 5 Significant Wildlife Habitat Section 3.3 Process for the Identification of Candidate Page 5 and Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitat Section 4.0 Grassland Bird Communities Page 8 Section 5.0 References Page 9 Schedule 1.0 Identifying Candidate Page 10 Significant Wildlife Habitat Schedule 1.1 Seasonal Concentration Areas Page 8 Schedule 1.2 Rare Vegetation Communities or Page 13 Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Schedule 1.3 Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern Page 16 (Not Including Rare (Vulnerable), threatened Or Endangered Species Schedule 1.4 Animal Movement Corridors Page 20 Schedule 2.0 Appendices Page 22 Schedule 2.1 Seasonal Concentration Areas Page 22 Schedule 2.2 Rare Vegetation Communities or Page 26 Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Schedule 2.3 Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern Page 35 Schedule 2.4 Animal Movement Corridors Page 36

3 3 OAK RIDGES MORAINE TECHNICAL PAPER SUBJECT: Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Paper for the Oak Ridges Moraine MNR TP-1 Date: Feb, 2004 Final Draft 1. PURPOSE: To provide guidance in the identification and protection of Significant Wildlife Habitat (SWH) on the Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM), demonstrating how the requirements of Section 22 of the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan (ORMCP) can be met. 2. BACKGROUND: Section 22 of the ORMCP lists Significant Wildlife Habitat as one of eight categories of Key Natural Heritage Features that must be protected from development or site alteration. Wildlife habitat as defined in the ORMCP: means land that, (a) is an area where plants, animals and other organisms live or have the potential to live and find adequate amounts of food, water, shelter and space to sustain their population, including an area where a species concentrates at a vulnerable point in its annual or life cycle and an area that is important to a migratory or non-migratory species, and (b) has been further identified, by the Ministry of Natural Resources or by any other person, according to evaluation procedures established by the Ministry of Natural Resources, as amended from time to time. Significant as defined in the ORMCP: Identified as significant by the Ministry of Natural Resources, using evaluation procedures established by that Ministry, as amended from time to time. Section 22(2) of the ORMCP requires that: All development and site alteration with respect to land within a key natural heritage feature or the related minimum vegetation protection zone is prohibited, except for the following:

4 4 1. Forest, fish, and wildlife management. 2. Conservation and flood or erosion control projects, but only if they have been demonstrated to be necessary in the public interest after all alternatives have been considered. 3. Transportation, infrastructure, and utilities as described in Schedule 11, but only if the need for the project has been demonstrated and there is no reasonable alternative. 4. Low-intensity recreational uses as described in section 37. Furthermore, subsection 22(3) specifies that a Natural Heritage Evaluation would be required for SWH if an application for development or site alteration was located within the Minimum Area of Influence of 120m as outlined in section 23. As no minimum Vegetation Protection Zone (VPZ) is identified for SWH, the Natural Heritage Evaluation would also be required to determine if a minimum VPZ is required, and if so, to specify its required dimensions. 3.0 IDENTIFICATION AND PROTECTION OF SWH ON THE ORM: Municipalities will not be required to identify all significant wildlife habitats across the entire ORM area that occurs within their jurisdiction. These guidelines will be applied in response to a site-specific planning or development application. 3.1 Significant Wildlife Habitats Applicable to the ORM A comprehensive review of procedures for the identification of SWH in Ontario is provided in the provincial Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide (OMNR 2000). These guidelines were used for assessing which wildlife habitats located on the ORM may qualify as significant. The majority of SWH on the ORM can be found either wholly or partially within the boundaries of other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features. As such, they are often afforded appropriate protection. The intent of this Technical Paper therefore, is to emphasize the identification and protection of those SWH that are found outside the boundaries of already protected features. Confirmed SWH either inside or outside the boundaries of another protected value would be considered a Key Natural Heritage Feature on the ORM. There are four categories of SWH identified in this Technical Paper that need to be independently considered on the ORM because they sometimes occur outside areas protected as KNHF s and Hydrologically Sensitive Features (HSF):

5 5 1. Seasonal Concentration Areas 2. Rare Vegetation Communities or Specialized Habitat for Wildlife 3. Habitat For Species of Conservation Concern (not including Endangered, Rare and Threatened Species) 4. Animal Movement Corridors Proponents will be required to identify and protect SWH in accordance with this Technical Paper. 3.2 Definition of Candidate or Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitat: A Candidate SWH is a potential area of wildlife habitat that may be considered significant for the ORM. These can be determined or identified by: An assessment carried out in accordance with Schedule 1 (with use of Ecological Land Classification) in this Technical Paper; An evaluation/report documenting the presence of SWH (i.e. Natural Heritage Evaluation, Environmental Assessment report, Environmental Impact Statement, etc.) A study in which a wetland less that 0.5ha in size or a woodland between 0.5 to 4.0ha in size is being examined for an exemption as a KNHF as identified in Technical Papers 1.03, 7.03 or 8.03, in which the proponent is required to confirm the presence or absence of the SWH s in accordance with Schedule 2.0 of this document. A Confirmed SWH An area of SWH on the ORM verified through a recent field study as outlined in Section 5 of this Technical Paper or by a recent field study consistent with the requirements outlined in this Technical Paper. A Confirmed SWH is a Key Natural Heritage Feature. 3.3 The Process for the Identification of Candidate or Confirmed Significant Wildlife Habitat: STEP 1: Background Information Needs To determine if Confirmed SWH and/or Candidate SWH are present on a site, the proponent will be required to collect background information including obtaining and reviewing any existing reports or evaluations on wildlife habitat (sources include but are not limited to: MNR; Conservation Authorities; Academia; Environmental Assessments; Natural Heritage Evaluations; Environmental Impact Studies, etc).

6 6 STEP 2: Ecological Land Classification Identify and delineate Ecological Land Classification (ELC) Ecosites for the proponent s property site and for the finest ELC level (Community Class, Community Series, Ecosite) practical on the adjacent lands within 120m of the proposed development or site alteration. STEP 3: Identification of Candidate SWH This step is designed to help an applicant to identify if a Candidate SWH exists. As noted, other Key Natural Heritage Features and Hydrologically Sensitive Features protect most SWH on the ORM.. Use of the ELC will be the key to this process. Identification of Ecosite classes on-site will allow the proponent to conduct a comparison with the Ecosite classes indicated in the tables in Schedule 1, each of which indicate the potential for a specific type of SWH to exist. A positive match will identify a Candidate SWH where more detailed evaluation is required to confirm the status / location of a SWH. The following four sub-sections based on the provincial Significant Wildlife Technical Habitat Guide (OMNR 2000) will be used: 1. Seasonal Concentration Areas 2. Rare Vegetation Communities or Specialized Habitat for Wildlife 3. Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern (Not including Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species) 4. Animal Movement Corridors Each sub-section has corresponding information that provides the description and requirements for a wildlife habitat to become significant on the ORM. The intent of this Technical Paper is not to identify SWH throughout the ORM in general, but rather, to identify Candidate SWH or Confirmed SWH in response to an application for development or site alteration. Assess the background information, the ELC evaluation, and the criteria for the four Significant Wildlife Categories outlined in Schedule 1 to identify: any Candidate SWH on or adjacent to the site based on Schedule 1 of this Technical Paper. any Candidate SWH previously evaluated by others on or adjacent to the site. any Confirmed SWH previously evaluated by others on or adjacent to the site. any Candidate SWH presence using Schedule 2.0 where a wetland less that 0.5ha in size or a woodland between 0.5 to 4.0ha in size are being examined for an exemption as a KNHF.

7 7 If a Candidate or Confirmed SWH has been identified, the proponent has one of the following two steps to choose from: STEP 4a: Decision to Protect Candidate SWH Protect the previously Confirmed or Candidate SWH identified in Step 3 as Key Natural Heritage Feature and go directly to Step 6. - or - STEP 4b: Decision to Confirm Status of Candidate SWH Undertake a detailed study to refine or verify the status of Confirmed or Candidate SWH as a Key Natural Heritage Feature. If the proponent chooses this option, the proponent must carry out a more detailed study to confirm the status, location, and nature of the confirmed Candidate SWH based on the following requirements that include: 1. More detailed mapping of vegetation cover (i.e. ELC Vegetation Types), waterrelated features, topographic elements in the site, and boundaries of a Candidate SWH. 2. More detailed investigation of the location and population of wildlife species that occupy a Candidate SWH. 3. Studies of disruption to movement patterns, key life cycle patterns, adjacency effects and how these may effect species within the Candidate SWH. 4. Where the study requires confirmation of the presence or absence of certain species, the proponent shall, in co-operation with the planning authority, confirm the timing, frequency and nature of the fieldwork. 5. The information provided in the schedules of this Technical Paper would provide additional guidance with respect to identifying and developing more specific studies to confirm Candidate SWH. Upon completion of the above, the proponent shall: Confirm, whether the area possesses the essential features and attributes to be defined as a Confirmed SWH; Determine the outside boundaries including are appropriate minimum VPZ for the SWH; identification of the significant features, functions and attributes that define the area as a Confirmed SWH; and Undertake an evaluation of the impacts and mitigation techniques needed to ensure protection of the SWH.

8 8 STEP 5a: Confirm Candidate SWH is Not a Confirmed SWH If the Candidate SWH is not determined to be a Confirmed SWH, simply document findings and refer to the approval authority for assessment, or; STEP 5b: Confirm Candidate SWH is Verified as Confirm SWH If Confirmed SWH is identified and verified, map and proceed to Step 6. STEP 6: Detailed Natural Heritage Evaluation Where the SWH has been verified or accepted under Step 4 as a Confirmed SWH, the proponent would then undertake a Natural Heritage Evaluation (refer to Technical Paper 8-03) to establish how the SWH will be protected from the impacts of the proposed development or site alteration including the establishment of a VPZ. 4.0 GRASSLAND BIRD COMMUNITIES: The MNR has identified grassland areas greater than 10 ha in size as Specialized Habitat which is significant for guilds or communities of wildlife species, most notably grassland or open-country bird species. Further, the ORMCP identifies SWH as a Key Natural Heritage Feature to be protected from development or site alteration. For the purposes of the ORMCP, only those SWH that are not protected by other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features, are to be identified as SWH. Open-field habitats (>10ha) likely fall within this category. However, at this time, insufficient information exists which would allow for the accurate identification and mapping of grassland areas greater than 10 ha in size which function as Specialized Habitat (ie. SWH) on the ORM. Thus, it is recommended that MNR oversee the development of a grasslands habitat management strategy for the ORM. The strategy will seek to address issues of the need for: more study; the need for improving the ability to identify vital units of these habitats and their mapping; development of maintenance and or restoration guidelines; and monitoring of both habitats and species utilizing them.

9 9 5.0 REFERENCES: Cooper, W. and M. McMurtry Aurora District Species at Risk Status Report. Aurora District and Southcentral Region Planning Unit, OMNR. 76 pp. CWS. 2002, (Downes, C.M., B.t. Collins and J.A Kennedy.) Canadian Bird Trends Web Site Version 2.0. Migratory Birds Conservation Division, Canadian Wildlife Service, Hull, Que. ( Lee, H., W. Bakowsky, J. Riley, J. Bowles, M. Puddister, P Uhlig and S. McMurray, Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and its Application. OMNR, Southcentral Science Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch. SCSS Field Guide FG-02. MMAH Provincial Policy Statement. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Section 3 of the Planning Act, Order in Council No Toronto, Ont. 18 pp. MMAH Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan. Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Toronto, Ont. 59 pp. OMNR Selected Wildlife and Habitat Features: Inventory Manual. OMNR. 210 pp. Szuba, K. and P. Bell Hawk Guide for Ministry of Natural Resources Field Personnel. Wildlife Branch, OMNR. 44 pp. OMNR Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide. Fish and Wildlife Branch, Wildlife Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch, Southcentral Sciences, Peterborough. Queen's Printer for Ontario. 139 pp. OMNR. 2000a. Significant Wildlife Habitat Technical Guide Appendix. Fish and Wildlife Branch, Wildlife Section, Science Development and Transfer Branch, Southcentral Sciences, Peterborough. Queen's Printer for Ontario. Pgs OMNR Natural Heritage Features of the Oak Ridges Moraine. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Aurora District, Aurora, Ont. 161 pp DRAFT. OMNR. 2003a. Identification of Key Natural Heritage Features on the Oak Ridges Moraine. OMNR Oak Ridges Moraine Technical Report DRAFT. OMNR. 2003b. Maintaining Connectivity Within the Oak Ridges Moraine. OMNR Oak Ridges Moraine Technical Report DRAFT. OMNR. 2003c. Preparation of Natural Heritage Evaluations For All Key Natural Heritage Features on the Oak Ridges Moraine DRAFT.

10 SCHEDULE 1- IDENTIFICATION OF CANDIDATE SWH Seasonal Concentration Areas Seasonal Concentration Areas are areas where wildlife species occur in number at certain times of the year, sometimes highly concentrated within relatively small areas. In spring and autumn, migratory wildlife species will concentrate where they can rest and feed. Other wildlife species require habitats where they can survive winter. Examples of Seasonal Concentration Areas include deer wintering areas, breeding bird colonies and hibernation sites for reptiles (OMNR 2000). Table 1.1 outlines which Seasonal Concentration Areas constitute Candidate SWH that are not already protected by a Key Natural Heritage Feature or Hydrologically Sensitive Feature. Schedule 2.1 contains tables for Seasonal Concentration Areas of wildlife considered SWH on the ORM, but are protected by other Key Natural Heritage or Hydrologically Sensitive Features. Table 1.1 Seasonal Concentration Areas for Wildlife Species not protected by other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features of the ORMCP. Wildlife Specie(s) ELC Ecosite Habitat Characteristics and CONFIRMED SWH Codes Information Sources Seasonal Concentration Areas Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas Black Duck Northern Pintail Gadwall Blue-winged Teal Green winged Teal CUM1 Fields with sheet water during Spring (April/May). Northern Pintail can be found in early spring on seasonally flooded fields. Although agricultural fields with waste grains are commonly used by waterfowl, these are not considered SWH. Anecdotal information from the landowner or adjacent landowners may be good information in determining occurrence. ESA Reports prepared by Studies carried out and verified presence of an annual concentration of any listed species. Aggregation of 100 or more of listed species required. Annual use of habitat is documented from information sources or field studies (annual can be based on study or determined anecdotally).

11 Seasonal Concentration Areas Colonial Nesting Bird Habitat Waterfowl Nesting Area Wildlife Specie(s) Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Black Duck Northern Pintail Northern Shoveler Gadwall Blue-winged Teal Green-winged Teal Wood Duck Hooded Merganser Mallard Ducks ELC Ecosite Codes Eroding banks, sandy hills, pits, steep slopes, rock faces or piles. CUM1 CUT1 CUS1 BLO1 BLS1 BLT1 CLO1 CLS1 CLT1 All upland habitats not protected as a Key Natural Heritage Feature or Hydrologically Sensitive Feature located adjacent to these wetland ELC Ecosites are Candidate SWH; MAS2 MAS3 SAS1 SAM1 SAF1 MAM2 MAM3 MAM4 MAM5 MAM6 Habitat Characteristics and Information Sources Conservation Authorities. Any exposed soil banks, undisturbed for 10 years or more. Does not include man-made structures (bridges or buildings) or recently disturbed soil areas, such as berms, embankments, soil or aggregate stockpiles. Also does not include an active Mineral Aggregate Operation. ESA Reports prepared by Conservation Authorities. Natural Heritage Information Centre occurrence records (includes breeding bird atlas data). Requests must be made through local MNR office. A waterfowl nesting area extends 120 m from a wetland (> 0.5 ha) or a cluster of 3 or more small (<0.5 ha) wetlands within 120 m of each individual wetland where waterfowl nesting is known to occur. Upland areas should be at least 120 m wide so that predators such as racoons, skunks, and foxes have difficulty finding nests. Wood Ducks and Hooded Mergansers utilize large diameter trees (>40cm dbh) in woodlands for cavity nest sites. Ducks Unlimited. Staff may know CONFIRMED SWH 11 Studies confirming presence of 1 or more nesting sites with 8 cliff swallow pairs or 100 bank swallow pairs during the spring breeding season. Anecdotal information from the landowner or adjacent landowners may be good information in determining occurrence. Studies confirmed presence of 3 or more nesting pairs for listed species listed except Mallard, or; Studies confirm presence of 10 or more nesting pairs for listed species including Mallard. Nesting studies should be completed during the spring breeding season (April/May/June). A field study confirming waterfowl nesting habitat will determine the boundary

12 Seasonal Concentration Areas Snake Hibernaculum Wildlife Specie(s) E. Garter Snake Brown Snake Smooth Green Snake E. Milk Snake N. Ribbon Snake N. Ringneck Snake N. Water Snake N. Redbelly Snake SWT2 SWD2 SWD4 ELC Ecosite Codes SWD1 SWD3 No ELC Ecosites are directly related to these habitats. The proponent s knowledge of rock piles, stone fences, and crumbling foundations would identify these Candidate SWH. Habitat Characteristics and Information Sources the locations of particularly productive nesting sites. OMNR Wetland Evaluations for indication of significant waterfowl nesting habitat. ESA reports prepared by Conservation Authorities. The E. Garter Snake is the only species listed that is known to concentrate during winter (Note: generally when hibernacula are limiting), the other species may hibernate with the E. Garter Snake or as individuals. In spring, some people observe the emergence of snakes from hibernacula on their property. ESA studies carried out by Conservation Authorities. Local naturalists and experts, as well as university herpetologists may also know where to find some of these sites. CONFIRMED SWH 12 of the waterfowl nesting habitat for the SWH, this may be greater or less than 120 m from the wetland and will provide enough habitat for waterfowl to successfully nest within. Studies confirming presence of snake hibernacula used by 10 or more individuals or 3 or more species. Search for congregations of snakes near hibernacula on sunny warm days in the fall. Hibernation takes place in sites located below frost lines in burrows, rock crevices and other natural locations. Areas of broken and fissured rock are particularly valuable since they provide access to subterranean sites below the frost line.

13 Rare Vegetation Communities or Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Rare Vegetation Communities The majority of Rare Vegetation Communities are protected on the ORM through the protection of Key Natural Heritage Features. For example, sand barrens, tallgrass prairie and savannahs are all identified as Key Natural Heritage Features by the ORMCP. In most other circumstances, Rare Vegetation Communities are protected by Hydrologically Sensitive Features and other Key Natural Heritage Features. Table contains a listing of Rare Vegetation Communities that are considered SWH for the ORM planning area and not protected by other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features. Woodlands Technical Paper 1-02 (Identification of Key Natural Heritage Features on the Oak Ridges Moraine), identifies Significant Woodlands, however some woodlands between the area of ha may not be considered significant. These woodlands have the potential to be a Rare Vegetation Community and therefore Candidate SWH. Table Potentially Rare Woodland Habitats found on the ORM, not protected as Significant Woodlands between ha. Rare Woodland Type ELC Ecosite Habitat Description Detailed Information CONFIRMED SWH Code and Sources Hickory Deciduous Forest FOD2 Dry-Fresh Deciduous Forest, with Hickory Species Dominating Oak-Hickory Deciduous Forest Mixed Oak Deciduous Forest FOD2 FOD1 Dry Deciduous Forest with Oak and Hickory Species Dominating Dry-Fresh Deciduous Forest with Two Species of Oak Dominating Complete Ecological Land Classification for Vegetation Types to determine if this forest type exists. Complete Ecological Land Classification for Vegetation Types to determine if this forest type exists. Complete Ecological Land Classification for Vegetation Types to determine if this ELC Vegetation Type FOD2-3 is identified, in woodlots or forest patches > 0.5 ha and not protected as a Significant Woodland (Technical Paper 1-02). ELC Vegetation Type FOD2-2 is identified, in woodlots or forest patches > 0.5 ha and not protected as a Significant Woodland (Technical Paper 1-02). ELC Vegetation Type FOD1-4 is identified, in woodlots or forest patches > 0.5 ha and not protected as a Significant Woodland

14 Rare Woodland Type ELC Ecosite Code Habitat Description 14 Detailed Information CONFIRMED SWH and Sources forest type exists. (Technical Paper 1-02). Black Oak Deciduous Forest White Oak Deciduous Forest Sugar Maple Black Maple Deciduous Forest FOD1 FOD1 FOD6 Dry-Fresh Deciduous Forest with Black Oak Dominating Dry-Fresh Deciduous Forest with White Oak Dominating Fresh-Moist Deciduous Forest Complete Ecological Land Classification for Vegetation Types to determine if this forest type exists. Complete Ecological Land Classification for Vegetation Types to determine if this forest type exists. Complete Ecological Land Classification for Vegetation Types to determine if this forest type exists. ELC Vegetation Type FOD1-3 is identified, in woodlots or forest patches > 0.5 ha and not protected as a Significant Woodland (Technical Paper 1-02). ELC Vegetation Type FOD1-2 is identified, in woodlots or forest patches > 0.5 ha and not protected as a Significant Woodland (Technical Paper 1-02). ELC Vegetation Type FOD6-2 is identified, in woodlots or forest patches > 0.5 ha and not protected as a Significant Woodland (Technical Paper 1-02) Specialized Habitat for Wildlife Some wildlife species require large areas of suitable habitat for their long-term survival. Many bird species require substantial areas of suitable habitat for successful breeding. Their populations decline when habitat becomes fragmented and reduced in size (OMNR 2000). The largest and least fragmented forest stands within a planning area will support the most significant populations of forest-area sensitive birds. For area-sensitive grassland bird species, large grassland areas are required for nesting. Specialized habitat for wildlife is a community or diversity based category, therefore the more wildlife species a habitat contains the more significant the habitat becomes to the ORM planning area. Many specialized habitats for wildlife are protected through other Key Natural Heritage Features and Hydrologically Sensitive Features. However, some specialized habitats are not protected and could be identified as SWH. The specialized habitats for wildlife that are Candidate SWH are outlined in Table All other specialized habitats for wildlife that have been determined for the ORM are listed in Schedule 2.2.

15 Table Specialized Habitats of Wildlife that are not protected by other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features on the ORM and would be considered Candidate SWH. 15 Significant Wildlife Community Amphibian Woodland, Corridor and Wetland Breeding Habitat. Wildlife Species ELC Ecosite Codes Habitat Description and Defining Criteria Red-spotted Newt Blue-spotted Salamander Spotted Salamander Gray Treefrog Spring Peeper Woodlands ha, not considered significant that are m from these wetland ecosites; MAS2 MAS3 SAS1 SAM1 SAF1 MAM2 MAM3 MAM4 MAM5 MAM6 SWT2 SWD1 SWD2 SWD3 SWD4 Woodlands ha not considered significant in Technical Paper 1-02 and are within m of a wetland, lake or pond. The Woodland and its Animal Movement Corridor to the pond would be the Candidate SWH. The wetland, lake or pond would be protected as a Hydrologically Sensitive Feature. However, some small wetlands may not be mapped and may be important breeding pools for amphibians. Refer to the Ontario Herpetofaunal Summary for historical records. Local landowners may also provide assistance as they may hear spring-time choruses of amphibians on their property. Breeding pools within the forest or the shortest distance from forest habitat are more significant because of reduced risk to migrating amphibians and more likely to be used. CONFIRMED SWH Studies confirm; Presence of breeding population of 2 or more of the listed species with at least 20 breeding pairs within; The woodland and corridor to the wetland, determines if a SWH exists. The wetland breeding pools may be permanent, seasonal, ephemeral, large or small in size and could be located within the woodland or within 120 m. A study to determine this SWH will be required during the spring when amphibians are migrating to and from the woodland/wetland to breed. Woodlands with permanent ponds or those containing water in most years until mid-july are more likely to be used as breeding habitat.

16 1.3 Habitat for Species of Conservation Concern (Not including Endangered, Rare, or Threatened Species) Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern for the purposes of this Technical Paper include wildlife species that are locally rare to the ORM, are common species that are thought to be declining, or are featured species of the ORM. Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern do not include habitats of Endangered, Rare, or Threatened Species as their habitats are a separate Key Natural Heritage Feature as outlined in the ORMCP. Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern are specific for a single species as compared to Specialized Habitats for Wildlife (Sec and Schedule 2.3) which looks at a habitat for a diversity of species utilizing the same habitat. Identification of Species of Conservation Concern for the ORM is the responsibility of the MNR and species will be selected based on policy, landuse guidelines, scientific studies and monitoring programs (e.g. Marsh Monitoring Program, Amphibian Road Call Counts, etc.). Table 1.3 assists with the identification of Candidate SWH for Species of Conservation Concern for the ORM. Schedule 2.3 contains a detailed list of Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern for the ORM. Note: The species listed in Table 1.3 are only to be assessed as Candidate SWH when land-use change is proposed and if a documented report identifies the occurrence of any of these species within the proposed development site. A development or site alteration proposal that would maintain or proposes restoration of the historic land-use would protect habitat for these species of wildlife. Table 1.3. Habitats of Species of Conservation Concern that are not protected by other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features on the ORM and would be considered Candidate SWH. Wildlife Species ELC Habitat Description, Defining Criteria and Information CONFIRMED SWH Ecosite Sources Brown Thrasher ** Population Status Declining (CWS 2002) CUT1 CUS1 Open pastures, early successional habitats, marginal farmland, areas of low dense woody vegetation, hawthorne pasture. - Shrubby Fields, including old haylands and pasture > 10ha. - Does not include areas of intensive agriculture such as cropland and orchards. - Refer to Note Above. - In Ontario, the Brown Thrasher from has shown a significant annual decline of 3.4% (p<0.05) (CWS 2000). Sites with breeding Brown Thrasher populations with these characteristics are considered Significant: - Shrubby Fields, including old haylands and pasture > 10 ha. (MNR 2000a) - Territories = 0.6 ha (CWS 2002) or more confirmed breeding or 16

17 Wildlife Species Bobolink ** Population Status Declining (CWS 2002) Eastern Meadowlark ** Population Status Declining (CWS 2002) ELC Ecosite CUM1 CUM1 Habitat Description, Defining Criteria and Information Sources This decline is thought to be from loss of open shrub, thicket habitat used for breeding. large, open grasslands with dense cover, haylands, meadows and fallow fields - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 50 ha - Does not include areas of intensive agriculture such as cropland and orchards. - Refer to Note Above. - In Ontario, the bobolink from has shown a significant annual decline of 1.7% (0.5<p<0.15) (CWS 2000). The decline is thought to be occurring due to loss of field/meadow breeding habitats. Open grassy meadows, pastures and hayfields. - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 10 ha. - Does not include areas of intensive agriculture such as cropland and orchards. - Refer to Note Above. - In Ontario, the Eastern Meadowlark from has shown a significant annual decline of 2.0% (p<0.05) (CWS 2000). The decline is thought to be occurring due to loss of field/meadow breeding habitats. CONFIRMED SWH nesting pairs. Sites with breeding Bobolink populations with these characteristics are considered Significant: - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 50 ha. (MNR 2002a) - Territories = 2.6 ha (CWS 2002) or more confirmed breeding or nesting pairs. Sites with breeding Eastern Meadowlark populations with these characteristics are considered Significant; - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 10 ha. (MNR 2002a) - Territories = 2.8 ha (CWS 2002). - 5 or more confirmed breeding or nesting pairs. 17 Field Sparrow ** Population Status Declining (CWS 2002) CUT1 CUS1 Open fields with low shrubs, abandoned pastures, and thickets - Shrubby Fields, including old haylands and pasture > 10 ha. - Does not include areas of intensive agriculture such as cropland and orchards. - Refer to Note Above. - In Ontario, The Field Sparrow from has shown Sites with breeding Field Sparrow populations with these characteristics are considered Significant: - Shrubby Fields, including old haylands and pasture > 10 ha. (MNR, 2002a) - Territories = 0.76 ha (CWS 2002)

18 Wildlife Species Western Meadowlark ** Population Status Declining (CWS 2002) Upland Sandpiper ** Population Status Declining (CWS 2002) ELC Ecosite CUM1 CUM1 Habitat Description, Defining Criteria and Information Sources a significant annual decline of 4.5% (p<0.05) (CWS 2000). This decline is thought to be from loss of open shrub, thicket habitat used for breeding. Open grassy meadows, pastures and hayfields. - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 10 ha. - Does not include areas of intensive agriculture such as cropland and orchards. - Refer to Note Above. - In Ontario, The Western meadowlark from has shown a significant annual decline of 6.2% (p<0.05) (CWS 2000). The decline is thought to be occurring due to loss of field/meadow breeding habitats. Open pastures, hayfields with alfalfa or clover, with little to no shrubs. - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 25 ha. - Does not include areas of intensive agriculture such as cropland and orchards. - Refer to Note Above. - In Ontario, the Upland Sandpiper from has shown a significant annual decline of 3.6% (p<0.05) (CWS 2000). The decline is thought to be occurring due to loss of field/meadow breeding habitats. CONFIRMED SWH - 15 or more confirmed breeding or nesting pairs. 18 Sites with breeding Western Meadowlark populations with these characteristics are considered Significant: - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 10 ha. (MNR 2002a) - Territores = 6.0 ha (CWS 2002). - 2 or more confirmed breeding or nesting pairs. Sites with breeding Upland Sandpiper populations with these characteristics are considered Significant: - Large grassland fields, including haylands and pasture > 25 ha. (MNR 2002a). - Territories = 10 ha (CWS 2002). - 3 or more confirmed or breeding or nesting pairs. 1.4 Animal Movement Corridors Animal Movement Corridors are elongated areas used by wildlife to move from one habitat to another. They are important to ensure genetic diversity in populations, to allow seasonal migration of animals (e.g. deer moving from summer to winter range) and to allow animals to move throughout their home range from feeding areas to cover areas. Animal movement corridors function at different scales, often related to the size and home range of the animal. For example, short, narrow areas of natural

19 habitat may function as a corridor between amphibian breeding areas and their summer range, while wider, longer corridors are needed to allow deer to travel from their winter habitat to their summer habitat. 19 Identifying the most important corridors that provide connectivity across the landscape is challenging because of a lack of specific information on animal movements. There is also some uncertainty about the optimum width and mortality risks of corridors. Furthermore, a corridor may be beneficial for some species but detrimental to others. For example, narrow linear corridors may allow increased access for racoons, cats, and other predators. Also, narrow corridors dominated by edge habitat may encourage invasion by weedy generalist plants and opportunistic species of birds and mammals. Corridors often consist of naturally vegetated areas that run through more open or developed landscapes. However, sparsely vegetated areas can also function as corridors. For example, many species move freely through agricultural land to reach natural areas. Despite the difficulty of identifying exact movement corridors for all species, these landscape features are important to the long-term viability of certain wildlife populations. Animal Movement Corridors, should only be identified as Candidate SWH where: 1. A Confirmed or Candidate SWH has been identified by MNR or the planning authority based on documented evidence of a wildlife species identified within this Technical Paper using a distinct passageway or relying on well defined natural features for movements between habitats required by the species to complete its life cycle. Where no such evidence exists, the connectivity provision provided in MNR Technical Paper 3-03 (Supporting Connectivity within the Oak Ridges Moraine) or a Natural Heritage Evaluation (MNR Technical Paper 8-03) can identify an animal movement corridor, to maintain connectivity across the landscape for plant and animal movements. Open corridors identified through MNR Technical Paper 3-03 will not be treated as a SWH or a Key Natural Heritage Feature in and of itself. Animal Movement Corridors previously identified or determined through a Natural Heritage Evaluation will be treated as SWH and a Key Natural Heritage Feature. 2. Animal Movement Corridors may not be protected when a Confirmed or Candidate SWH is identified within a Settlement Area land use designation. When a Confirmed or Candidate SWH is identified within a Settlement Area, an Animal Movement Corridor will be determined by following the direction outlined in MNR Technical Paper 3-03 or by a Natural Heritage Evaluation. The determination of a corridor in the Settlement Area land use designation will ensure the SWH does not become isolated from other natural features.

20 20 Schedule 2 This schedule for the SWH Technical Paper for the Oak Ridges Moraine contain Significant Wildlife Habitat for the ORM that is typically protected by other Key Natural Heritage Features or Hydrologically Sensitive Features. The SWH included herein is identified with the intent of providing background information for when an unusual circumstance occurs or when a SWH is identified outside of its normal habitat description. The information in this Schedule will be used for the confirmation of a Candidate SWH where a wetland less that 0.5ha in size or a woodland between 0.5 to 4.0ha in size are being examined for an exemption as a KNHF. An identified wildlife habitat that meets the criteria outlined in this schedule and follows the process in Section 3 of this technical paper is a confirmed SWH and is considered a KNHF. The information sources provided are not all inclusive and other information sources may exist to assist with identifying a SWH on the ORM. SCHEDULE 2.1 Seasonal Concentration Areas Waterfowl Stopover and Staging Areas During spring and fall migration, waterfowl require habitat that supplies adequate food to replenish energy reserves, resting areas, and cover from predators and adverse weather conditions. Migrating waterfowl usually prefer larger wetlands, especially those adjacent to large bodies of water, and relatively undisturbed vegetated shorelines. The best wetlands generally have a diversity of vegetation communities interspersed with open water. The permanency of wetlands should be considered SPECIES HABITAT - American Greenwinged Ponds, marshes, lakes Teal and watercourses used American Black Duck during migration. Northern Pintail Habitats with abundant Northern Shoveller food supply (mostly Wigeon aquatic invertebrates and Gadwall MAM2 MAM3 MAM4 MAM5 MAM6 MAM1 MAM2 Canadian Wildlife Service staff know the larger, most significant sites. Check website Naturalist clubs often are aware of staging/stopover areas. Check OMNR Wetland Evaluations because Studies carried out and verified presence of: - An annual concentration of any listed species. Annual Use of

21 SPECIES HABITAT - Blue-winged Teal vegetation in shallow Wood Duck water); Hooded Merganser. Common Merganser Lesser Scaup Ring-necked duck Common Goldeneye Bufflehead Deer Wintering Areas 21 MAM3 SAS1 SAM1 SAF1 these indicate presence of locally and regionally significant waterfowl staging habitat. OMNR staff may be aware of important fall staging areas within the ORM, such as areas that receive heavy hunting pressure. Local duck hunters know the more important areas. ESA reports and other studies prepared by C.A. s Habitat is Documented from Information Sources or Field Studies (Annual can be based on study or determined anecdotally). Aggregations of 100 or more of listed species required. With the onset of snow accumulation deer start to move into seasonal concentration areas called wintering areas (typically in mid- December). Deer remain in these areas until snow melts in the spring (usually early April). By aggregating during winter, deer are able to establish and maintain a network of trails linking areas of food and cover. The coniferous forest cover available in wintering areas provides protection from winds, predators, and by holding snow on their branches, conifers effectively reduce snow depth on the ground. An adequate supply of accessible woody browse is required in wintering areas to provide food for deer throughout the winter. SPECIES HABITAT - White-tailed deer Wintering areas of mainly coniferous trees (pines, hemlock, cedar, spruce). May also include areas of deciduous forest. A canopy cover of more than 60%. Land surrounding the core area is usually agriculture, mixed or deciduous FOC1 FOC2 FOC3 FOC4 FOM1 FOM2 FOM3 FOM4 FOM5 FOM6 FOM7 FOM8 CUP2 These areas are often mapped. Contact your local MNR office. In addition, MNR biologists, foresters, conservation officers and local hunters may know the location of some deer yards Field investigations that record deer tracks in winter to confirm use (can be done from a vehicle or aircraft). This is best done in a series of winters to establish the boundary in an "average" winter. The boundary of the deer wintering area will shrink or expand Identified by MNR Study confirming deer wintering activity. Deer Wintering Habitat is significant if 25 or more deer utilize a woodland area annually. Deer Wintering Areas are typically protected by Significant

22 SPECIES HABITAT - forest. Traditionally used by deer. Absence of barriers to migration to and from the yard itself. Suitable areas of cover, food and adjacent natural lands. 22 CUP3 SWC1 SWC2 SWC3 SWC4 SWM1 SWM2 SWM3 SWM4 SWM5 SWM6 significantly depending on snow depth at the time of survey (identification and delineation of white-tailed deer winter habitat in "Selected Wildlife and Habitat Features: Inventory Manual", 1993). ESA reports and other studies prepared by C.A. s Woodlands on the ORM. Colonial Bird Nesting Sites Nesting colonies that are highly sensitive to disturbance, should be considered significant. Whether the colony is expanding or declining should also be considered. A new colony that is expanding may have a greater chance of long-term sustainability, than a colony that is declining. Colonies with a long history of use are highly significant. SPECIES HABITAT - Great Blue Heron Nests in dead standing trees in large marshes and lakes. Most nests are 11 to 15 m from ground, near the top of the tree. SWM2 SWM3 SWM5 SWM6 SWD1 SWD2 SWD3 SWD4 SWD5 SWD6 SWD7 FET1 Ontario Heronry Inventory 1991 available from Bird Studies Canada. Sometimes aerial photographs can help identify large heronries. Management Guidelines for the Protection of Heronries in Ontario. Bowman & Siderius, ESA reports and other studies prepared by C.A. s MNR District Offices. Identified by MNR, or Studies confirming presence of 5 or more active heron nests. Studies would be done during May/June when Herons are actively nesting. Heronries are usually within Hydrologically Sensitive Features and already protected on the

23 Sedge Wren Marsh Wren SPECIES HABITAT - Nests mostly in grassy fens, occasionally bogs, occasionally in marshes, old fields or hayfields. Nests are on ground or as far as 0.9 m from the ground. Not usually associated with standing water, but usually in imperfectly or poorly drained areas. Nests in aggregations. Nests mostly in cattail marshes, occasionally in bulrushes, horsetails, burreed, and emergent grasses. Nests are elevated above water, usually in cattails, may be found on damp ground. 23 FEO1 BOO1 MAM2 MAM3 MAM4 MAM5 MAM6 MAM2 MAM3 MAM4 MAM5 MAM6 MAM1 MAM2 MAM3 Canadian Wildlife Service. Check website Natural Heritage Information Centre occurrence records (includes breeding bird atlas data). Requests must be made through local MNR office. ESA reports and other studies prepared by C.A. s. Canadian Wildlife Service. Check website Natural Heritage Information Centre occurrence records (includes breeding bird atlas data). Requests must be made through local MNR office. ESA reports and other studies prepared by C.A. s. ORM. Identified by MNR, or Studies confirm presence of 3 or more breeding pairs during spring breeding season. Sedge Wren colonies are usually within Hydrologically Sensitive Features and already protected on the ORM. Identified by MNR, or Studies confirm presence of 3 or more breeding pairs during spring breeding season. Marsh Wren colonies are usually within Hydrologically Sensitive Features and already protected on the ORM.

24 SCHEDULE Rare Vegetation Communities Rare Vegetation Communities or Specialized Habitats for Wildlife A list of rare vegetation communities for southern Ontario (Site Regions 6) has been prepared and described in a document entitled "Natural Heritage Resources of Ontario: Vegetation Communities of Southern Ontario" (Bakowsky, 1996). All of the vegetation communities are listed for southern Ontario including marshes, swamps, bogs, fens, beaches, sand dunes, barrens, alvars, prairies, savannahs, and forests. Dominant species and a site description based largely on soil moisture and texture are used to discern communities. The rarity of each community and its presence or absence in Site Regions 6E and 7E of southern Ontario are provided. The Natural Heritage Information Centre also has a web site ( that can be referred to see if there are any updates. Some vegetation communities described in these publications are difficult to identify because considerable field experience is required. However, they provide an excellent starting point for the identification of rare vegetation communities. SPECIES/HABITAT TYPE Rare Forest Types HABITAT - Treed Communities with greater than 60% canopy closure. Check the OMNR Site District Report(s) that apply to the municipality for descriptions of potentially rare forest types. Use Ecological Land Classification to determine if rare forest types exist. Identified by MNR Studies confirm presence of: Forest tree association that is rare within the Site Region

25 25 Specialized Habitats For Wildlife Some wildlife species require large areas of suitable habitat for their long-term survival. Habitat fragmentation or loss of habitat due to changes in land-use can have adverse effects on guilds or communities of species that require large, relatively intact areas of suitable breeding habitat. Permanent and seasonal wetlands, wetland complexes, larger woodland areas (>30ha) and large open field habitats (>10ha) are the predominant Specialized Habitats that are significant for guilds or communities of wildlife species. These habitats will become SWH for the ORM when guilds or communities of wildlife species above a minimum threshold are identified utilizing the habitat as breeding area. Protecting significant woodlands as suggested in the Natural Heritage Section of the Provincial Policy Statement (MMAH, 1997), will also maintain some critical habitat for area-sensitive forest species. The significant forest component is closely linked to this important significant wildlife habitat. The largest, least-disturbed grasslands might also be identified for their value to area-sensitive grassland species and provision of further landscape diversity. Minimum habitat thresholds apply to species that require a minimum amount of suitable habitat within the general landscape before they will use that habitat, even though their territorial requirements may be much smaller. In order to address minimum habitat thresholds, a landscape approach must be applied. A specific amount of habitat must be protected. This has been addressed to some degree by the recommendations in this guide to maintain good representation of all habitat types in the Oak Ridges Moraine. Interior Forest Breeding Bird and Mammal Species SPECIES HABITAT - S. Flying Squirrel Whip-poor-will Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Red-breasted Nuthatch Blue-grey Gnatchatcher Veery Hermit Thrush Blue-headed Vireo Northern Parula Magnolia Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler There should be several large forests (30 to ha). Forests should comprise of a closed canopy of large trees. Forests should have a variety of vegetation layers. The minimum interior forest habitat is at FOC1 FOC2 FOC3 FOC4 FOM1 FOM2 FOM3 FOM4 FOM5 FOM6 FOM7 FOD8 FOD9 SWC1 SWC2 SWC3 SWC4 SWM1 SWM2 SWM3 SWM4 SWM5 Planning authorities with their resource data in GIS system can make queries of forest stands based on size. Ask local birders for local forests that support abundant and species rich populations of area-sensitive species. These people may know many of the most important areas. Contact the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) for the location of Identified by MNR Studies confirm; - Presence of nesting or breeding pairs of 3 or more of the listed wildlife species within; - All natural forest stands 30 ha or greater in size or with at least 10 ha interior habitat assuming 100 m buffer at edge of forest.